Iran and Oman near deal on temporary Hormuz shipping route

In early August 2026, Iran and Oman were close to reaching a deal on a temporary shipping route through the Strait of Hormuz, according to Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. Omani officials described the talks as progressing in a 'positive' atmosphere, though no final agreement had been announced. The discussions come amid reports of a tanker being targeted in the area, with the UAE accusing Iran of the attack.

However, Iran's Revolutionary Guard (IRGC) stated that reopening the strait does not depend on the talks with Oman. This suggests that while the negotiations are a step toward easing tensions, Iran maintains its own conditions for fully restoring shipping through the strategic waterway.